Burst

*Jamie smiles at Con and gives a small nod. It was getting late and she herself had a long day at work.*

"You know I am kind of tired myself. These days just seem longer and longer I tell ya. I think I will head to bed myself with ya babe."

*streching and standing Jamie gives Con a kiss before heading into the kitchen for a moment o get a glass of water, than use them bathroom before finally making it to bed.*

*As the rain continues to fall Katie looks out the open Tent door just watching it. The Sky almost complete dark as night had fallen. It had been raining since late last night and surly by not the river on the mountain was start to over flow. If that was so it would be reaching where so was in no time and who knows how much water was coming. Katie had to get above the river itself. She did not really want to get out in the rain and get wet but she new if she didnt there would be bigger problems.

Letting out a long sigh Katie starts to pack up everything that was inside the tent in her back making sure to cover that with the extra poncho she braught to keep it try. Than venturning out Katie exits the tent and starts taking that down. As the last peace is put away Katie look up the hill only to see water start to come pouring down. It would be slippery and a little dangerouse to walk up seeing as the side had no pertection only a cliff that droped and you would fall to your death. But she had to keep going, all she needed to do was get to the cave and she would be fine.

Starting to make her way up the moutain Katie strugles to keep her footing ans slips a few times going down on her hands and knees but ends up catching herself. Continuning her way up the hill Katie trudges forward.

Suddanly a big stream of water starts to come down the hill knockng into Katie's feet as she walks and throws her off balance once again. Going down to the ground Katie goes to catch herself but grabs nothing this time. Tumbaling Katie continues to fall as she loses her train of thought and the emotionaly block is lifted a little. Finally Katie stops tumbaling but what was worse is she no longer felt and ground under her eather. Katie had gone off the edge of the cliff and was now falling. Reaching out for anything in panic Katie grabs on to the ledge and his the wall with force. The block open all the way up and the burst wave of panic coming with such a force as Katie hangs from the edge and in a split moment Her life pass before her eyes. From her mother and baby brother, to her father, to her ex boyfriends, to the ranch, to Jason, than Scott. Lingering there for a moment the scenes play in her head reminding her of the good times this in any other situation would bring a smile, than her mind goes back to Jason and scenes of him flash through her mind. As Katie hanges from the ledge her keeps her eyes closed shut hoping she could hold on. Till finally she knows she cant hang there any longer. Closing off the emotions again Katie trys with all her might and pulls herself up. Once up and safe Katie callapes on the ground leting the rain hit her in the face and cools off her skin. In that split second of coming so close to death everything changed for Katie. God had opend her eyes and showed her there was more to life and more people. Now, she wasnt going to continue up the moutain because she wanted to be alone but because she wanted to reach her destination and remember. It was time to let Scott go so he could rest in peace.*

From: Arizona Tech
To: Mike Reese
RE Subject: Help
Mike,
It was good to get your message and know you guys are doing ok. We just so happen to have an extra guy and he said he liked the idea of coming on out. I'll send Dalton out the day after tomarrow. Take care.

Tired

Jason shakes his head a little. Reaching over, he roughs up Misty's hair teasingly. "Let's just call it even, eh? We're both too stubborn to get anywhere like this."

He gives her a little smile to let her know it's okay, and he just wants to forget about it. He knows where Misty stands, and she knew where he stood too. Unless someone's opinion changed, theyw were at an impasse. But he didn't want to argue anymore.

The air cleared a bit, getting back to TJY wasn't so bad, and the rest of the day goes smoothly. Jason stays in his office most of the day, trying to work, trying to keep his head clear, and trying to keep his sugar balanced out too. Trying to ignore the emotional pileup wasn't easy, but he was getting the hang of it anyway.

By the evening, instead of staying and working late, Jason gives in to his exhaustion and goes home on time. getting there though, supper isn't enjoyed, and the tv just drones on, his lack of interest creating a tired boredom.

Trooper begs him for attention, but Jason ignores him, finally falling asleep on the couch.


Con leans back in the couch, his arm around Jamie, and his eyes starting to fall shut. He'd been out all afternoon helping a friend from church fix their garage roof, and though it was only mid-evening, he was bushed.

He turns his head, giving Jamie a kiss on the cheek. "Sorry, babe, but unless you want to keep me warm out here tonight, I'm heading to bed now. I'm gonna fall asleep in about five minutes, and nothing is gonna get me up."

He grins a little. "I need to go to TJY to workout so days like this don't wear me out like this."


Reese sighs deeply and rereads his email. It felt wrong. But...he had to move on. TJY had to move on. No matter how much he hated it. Finally, he hits send.

From: Mike Reese
To: TJY Arizona Base
Subject: Help
As you know, we lost our tech guy, Scott Johnson, recently. Since then, we have had no one replace him, but our department is suffering. We're in dire need of a replacement for Scott. If you have anyone extra in your department, or know of anyone on the outside, please let me know. Thank you.

Sorrys

*Misty stays quiet in the car for a long while on the way home. She know that she probely said to much to Jason today but it was hard for her not to. Jason was a good friend and she was just trying to help even if she was forward about it.

Finally as Jason speaks and says he is sorry Misty turns and looks at him giving a small nod.*

"I'm sorry to Hotshot that I was all up in your business. Your just my friend...and...I dont know. Its non of my business I just was trying to help I guess. So I over steped the line."

*Misty offers a smile to Jason. He was her friend and she hated the though of him being mad at her.*

Stuck

Jason scowls at getting slapped upside the head, and throws a restrained glare at the back of Misty as she exits the café. It was going to be a long ride back to work.

Following her out, he gets in the driver’s side and starts the engine, pulling out onto the street.

As he drives, he’s quiet though…and the anger starts to settle down. He gives Misty a sidelong glance. He hated tension between them. She was good friend… always had been. And he was making things worse.

“Sorry, Misty,” he quietly apologizes. “What I said wasn’t called for. I just… I feel stuck at the moment and don’t know where to go.”

Jerk

*As Misty and Jason walk out the door and she hears his comment Misty reaches out and whaps him upside the back of the head.*

"Your a real jerk you know."

*Misty continues to walk this lunch had turned out differnt than planed but she didnt regret it.*

"As for me, I'm happy where I am thank you very much."

Hotter water

Misty's words hit Jason below the belt. Maybe he was scared, maybe he was being too proud - but it didn't change anything. There was too much going on right now...he couldn't handle anything else, least of all with Katie. It just wouldn't work.

Keeping his eyes elsewhere, he resists rolling them. He should just divert the conversation and leave it be. He should just stop things where they were and not let it go any further. Misty was ready to leave - he should just get up and let it all go. But his tongue doesn't let him.

"Yeah. I did let her know how I felt. And then I promptly made her feel like dirt by taking my feelings away from her after she'd had a taste. How's that for pushing someone away?"

He leans back in his chair and looks up at Misty, holds out his arms, his annoyance showing through his slight sarcasm. "You got me. I'm the most insensitive guy that ever roamed the earth, and I'm a butthead for what I've put Katie through." He stops, refraining from a glare. "Now if you were me, would you want to risk continuing to put her through heck? I sure wouldn't. It's better this way."

He stands up and takes his wallet to leave payment on the table. Turning back around, he looks down at Misty, a strange glint in his eye. It wasn't angry.... it wasn't arrogant.... it was something else. His tone is lowered. "At least I know I'm not the only one with hidden feelings."

Sighing, Jason heads to the door. He wishes they'd brought two vehicles, but he'd driven them both, so he had to ride back to TJY with Misty. If he didn't shut up soon, he'd get himself into even hotter water.

I didnt

*Misty lets out another long sigh and shakes her head.*

"Jason Stevenson, one of these days your gonna have to learn to get over yourself. Your not the only one that matters, your pride and fear is getting in the way of keep you, Jason happy."

*She can't help but feel very bad for Jason himself. Looking at him, his words didnt match how he felt and she new it. Why he kept denying it she didnt know.*

"And on top of it, deni a simple question..I never asked if you were going to date her again. I just asked if you let her know how you felt. Maybe she is better on the moutain...I guess its home to her."

*Misty takes her purse and stands seeing Jason is finished as well.*

"Come on, lets get back our lunch is almost up and I dont need to keep talking and getting you more mad at me than you probely are."

*Misty smiles and nods her head twords the door. She new Jason was probely mad, but she also new he'd get over it.*

Not yes, not no

Jason keeps one eyebrow raised as Misty starts to talk, and cocks his head slightly, not really appreciating her pointed words. He could feel the heat rising to his face, and without anywhere for his rising emotions to go, it was a more intense inner battle than he liked. If it wasn't for the fact that he and Misty had a good enough relationship to tell each other anything, he would be tempted to tell her to take a hike, or walk out himself. Without a break though, he just sits and receives her words and observations.

Jason almost feels like he's getting a tongue lashing, and his jaw tightens, finally dropping his gaze.

It's a long moment before he can respond to her, and when he does, he looks back up, staring her in the eye. "I respect and enjoy Katie's friendship. I like what she and I have. We're close. But that's as far as it goes. I'm not ready for anything else. I'm not ready to crash and burn a third time. If Katie can't understand that, then I don't know what else I can do. Love?" He shrugs. "It's irrelevant."

Rump

*Misty shakes her had at Jason's denial and raises her own eyebrow to him.*

"Oh come on, get over it. That might work on some people Hotshot, but not me. I see the way you look at her and talk to her. How when she walks by your eyes just linger so you can get the last glimps of her. It might of been a long time ago that you two were together but you never stopped loving her."

*Misty's eyes meet Jason's as she continues to talk.*

" Not to mention, Katie might have blocked you off now but thats not the only reason it bothers you. I think it bothers you that something is wrong with Katie and you don't know what. But your to stuck on making people you don't care that you wont get off your rump and go see whats wrong with her. She pushed you out Hotshot and your first reaction was "Fine, be that way." not "Whats wrong? something has to be with with Katie.""

*Misty lets out a long sigh as she sits back in her chair for just a moment.*

"Katie might of pushed you away Jason, but didnt you push her first?"

TMI!

Bret returns Charlotte's kiss, his eyes starting to light up. He was scared, but...this time around, he had more confidence that things would work out.

He leans into her hand a little, offering a thin smile. "I don't know what I do...it should be me thanking you instead."

Straightening up, he glances at the clock. "Well you get scooting then. By the time you get back, I'll be ready."


Misty's words made sense. Jason didn't like it, but it was logical nonetheless. Katie had been through so much lately...part of it was his own fault, part of it was just stupid chance and life itself. No matter the cause though, she'd been through more than anyone should have to face, and it wasn't fair. It was no wonder she was having a hard time moving on.

He just wished...there was something he could do. But how could he, when Katie had deliberately pushed him away? And how could he, without jeopardizing the relationship they currently had? He didn't want to offer more than he was willing to give, but he didn't want to give her nothing either. And why did this have to be so hard?

Jason gives a little sigh. "Yeah...I know. I guess I'm a little upset that she's locked me out, but...I suppose you're right. Knowing her, she thinks she's being too much of a burden or something. Which... obviously she shouldn't, but... I've tried convincing her other times otherwise, and it hasn't worked too well."

As the subject changes, and he receives a kick under the table, his smile only grows. Misty's explanation though, makes him cringe and laugh. "Aw, you did NOT have to tell me he was a good kisser. That is TOO much information."

He shakes his head and works on his drink, listening and nodding. "Yeah, I figured as much. Kyle seems to be pretty happy lately though." He tosses Misty a wink. "But I don't think I'm gonna go asking him about this - I've just learned plenty."

With the slight pause, Jason lets the subject drop, just thinking for a moment. Misty's question though, brings his eyes and head back up quickly and he blinks. Holding his composure well, he quirks an eyebrow. "Who says I love her? That was a long time ago."

Did You

*For a moment Charlotte's heart stops as the coin was flipped. Revealing that it was heads her head sinks just a little. She really wanted to go and run away. Sure some people would be upset but it was worth it and it was her own life after all. As Bret turns and speaks again going against the coin Charlotte heart starts to race once again. Hearing that he loved her back and didn't want to be without her anymore made her feel even better.

Leaning into Bret, Charlotte smiles and brings her lips to his. Exchanging a kiss of passion that showed how happy she was. Pulling away she smiles back at him as her eyes still were lit up.*

"I'll run home and grab some cloths, and stuff we will need than I'll be back. You can drive or I can drive its ok. While I'm home I'll call work too."

*Charlotte brings her hand to the side of Bret's faces and runs the thumb over his cheek.*

"Thank you for making me happy Bret."

*Misty listens to Jason as he explained the whole situation. She felt bad for Jason and Katie both. They had been through so much already and continued to go through more. Would they ever get a break? Taking a sip of her iced coffee Misty finally speaks.*

"Yeah know, the whole Scott passing away thing could of been the straw that broke the camles back. I mean yes this whole thing is horrable, tragic and probely hard for Katie to deal with. But I mean...maybe she had so much other stuff on her mind that this just pushed her over the edge. "

*Misty stops for a moment collecting her thoughts and taking another sip of her drink before she speaks again.*

"You know, it could be to that Katie dosn't want to be alone but that she thinks she should be so she dosnt have to put anymore stress on anyone alse. It's possable that Katie knows she is deep in depression and just dosnt know how to get out. So insted of bringing everyone down with her, she just disapeared. Just don't be to hard on her..."

*Misty reaches out and gives Jason's hand a small pat and smiles. Than changed to subject back to what Jason had asked. Giving him a small kick under the table for his comment.*

"I really like Kyle. He's a sweet guy who can make anyone laugh. I like hanging out with and well...He's a good kisser too."

*Looking down at her drink for a minute Misty's cheeks turn a slight color.*

"I think we are in between hanging out and searouse. I mean I'd like to say we are but I don't really know where Kyle stands we havnt really talked about it. It kind of just is what it is."

*Misty own eyes twinkle for a momnet as she gets a mischeavous grin on her face.*

"What about you? Did you get a chanse to tell Katie you loved her still?"

Heads

Bret locks his fingers around Charlotte's as she speaks, a form of relief and humility setting in as she accepted him as he was, even with his shortcomings.

Her mention of elopement almost makes him laugh, but as he looks her in the eye, it starts to sink in that it wasn't a joke. An act without caution, yes, but not a joke. And as the words of love are spoken, he simply stares back at her, not even knowing how to respond.

Had he just heard what he thought he had? And was she even serious?

Studying her face for a moment, he sees she is. That look in her eye.... that one of adventure was there, and she wasn't kidding. Elope? Marriage? That thought always brought on a wave of fear. After what had happened with Maria... after everything had fallen apart.... He didn't want to go through that again. He didn't want that pain again.

But... Charlotte was different than Maria. And though Bret had loved Maria, his feelings for Charlotte were different. For Maria, he'd never been willing to change. For Charlotte.... he'd do just about anything.

But marriage? Were they ready for that? Bret wasn't sure if it had been love at first sight or not... but he couldn't deny he had feelings for her, and he knew she had feelings for him too. But love? Was it really love? Or was it mere chemistry? She had just said she loved him... was it true?

Bret's eyes float back and forth between her own, the questions whirling in his mind. He searches deeply, his pulse quickening.... Charlotte had spoken the truth about what she felt. Did he feel the same?

Dropping his gaze, Bret spies a quarter on the coffee table. He reaches down to pick it up, letting it rotate in his fingers. "Heads we stay, keep things as they are, and I deal with those guys as it comes... Tails we go to Vegas."

The quarter is tossed. It flies into the air, flipping around, around, around. It hits the table, only to be covered up by Bret's hand, pressing down on top of it.

Bret holds his breath and stares at the hidden future. Finally he lifts his palm.

Heads.

He stares at it, his pulse still racing. The words from his mouth surprise even himself. He was absolutely nuts. There was no logic behind this at all. But he wasn't going to stop living. Not again.

"No."

He turns his head back to Charlotte. "I'm deciding my own fate this time. We're getting out of here tonight and going to Vegas... Because I love you too, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you."

His hand reaches out to cradle the side of her face. "I'm tired of being alone... and you're the only one that I want to be with."

Lets go

*Charlotte sits quiet for a long moment. Working through everything Bret said in her mind. Car racing, jail, robbing banks, jail again. Everything came as a surprise. Charlotte new Bret had some problems and understood that but this was heavy. However she was honored that he told her the truth and she cheeks even gained some color as she talked about being with her and feeling different around her. Truth be told, Charlotte was really starting to feel the same, that without Bret around is sucked. Finally Charlotte speaks as she holds Bret's hand and her eyes lock with him gaining a new look, and showing how serious she was.*

"You know Bret, any normal person I probably would of said goodbye to by now. But you there is something different about you. You have made me happy and showed me that not all guys are jerks. Your different and I love it. So answer to you Bret is...let elope right now, grab some of your cloths money, head to my house grab some of my cloths and money and go. "

*A smile spreads across Charlotte face as she talks. As her eyes dance, taking controll of things once again, acting on a whim, and just doing it because.*

"Than they wont be able to find you tomorrow either...and if we have to keep running we will...but as long as we are together I wont mind. I'd risk being hurt, as long as I new you would be there to keep me safe and help me get better."

*Charlotte continues to hold Bret's hand tightening her grip for just a moment. She was nervous about what she was to say next. The three letter word she never used with anyone before. But Bret, oh Bret she new it was true for sure.*

"Bret your the first guy I ever said this to but I mean it when I say to you...I love you...So lets go right now."

Driver

Bret isn’t surprised about Charlotte’s questioning, though he’d hoped it wouldn’t happen.

Looking down, he rubs his thumb on her hand… Her skin was so soft compared to his… so warm.

It takes him several minutes to finally give a little sigh, and shake his head. Glancing at Charlotte again, he moves to put his arm around her and draw her close, resting her head on his chest. Burying his face in her hair for a moment, he takes a deep breath, just wishing life were easier.

He knows Charlotte’s waiting for an answer…and he knows that it must look awfully strange that he isn’t offering one right away. But he just didn’t know what to say. He could come up with an excuse easy. He’d done it before. He could come up with an excuse anytime for anything. But there was just something about Charlotte that made it harder with her. He could lie to a lot of people… but the thought of lying to her…he wasn’t sure he could do it.

But this whole thing… it was just a part of things he’d never told Charlotte before. There was a lot about him she didn’t know… a lot of things that hurt when he thought about them, but that perhaps he should tell her before any of it came up down the road and ruined anything.

Finally Bret lets her go and sits up straight again, but his eyes remain down. His fingers lace through hers for courage. “You know…” His voice is low, and there’s more emotion in it than normal. “…Soon as I was out of highschool, I was already doing some weekend racing at a local track. I was the youngest, but the best. I could make a car do anything.” A slight smile breaks through before seriousness returns. “I’d been with it a few years though, when I got mad at my partner for cutting me off, and after the race I lost my temper. Threw my weight around too much and I got banned from the circuit. It, uh…well, the track was actually where I’d met Maria. She kept going with me even after that whole fiasco…”

He pauses again, reflecting. “…I loved her. But…we had our problems. I think she loved me too, but I guess it just wasn’t meant to be. There were too many difference between us. We got along real good, then a while after we were married, we started fighting all the time about stupid stuff. I got mad…I started doing stupid stuff out of spite. I don’t know…”

He shrugs, not liking this topic, but wanting to share out of respect. “Anyway…I started hanging out with my old buddies from the track…but they had ideas for fun that weren’t exactly in line with the law.”

Bret thinks for a moment, then leans over to the table to pick up the license plates and look at them. “We got this bright idea to get some quick cash. There was a bank in town that only had one security guard. I was still a good driver, so…I was picked to drive the getaway car.”

He runs his thumb over the edge of one of the plates. “We’d switch out plates on the car so no one could report us… we’d get there…two of the guys would go in with guns, I’d wait, and soon as they got back in, we’d take off. Even if we had cops tailing us, I was good enough that we’d lose ‘em. Worked good for a while…but one time we got caught.”

Bret sets the plates back down on the table, and lets go of Charlotte’s hand to stand up, pacing just a little. “I was the only one ending up in jail though…the guys bailed on me. But…it gave me prime opportunity to squeal on them to save my own hide. So I did. Because I gave up all the information the law wanted, I was set free with a bazillion and one warnings. Got my license taken away for a year, had to pay fines, and had to do some community service. Though I guess it was better than being behind bars like the other guys.”

Turning around, he’s brave enough to look at Charlotte again. “Thing was…that was the out that Maria had been looking for, and a couple weeks later, she was gone and I was getting served papers. Divorce court was messy…I ended up with my car and house and that was about it.”

Bret’s eyes eventually look down again, proving that he’d had feelings there once, and that despite arguments, there had been love there for Maria.

“It was over after that. I skipped around…wound up with Titan, and the rest his history. …Until a few weeks back.” He stops, biting the inside of his lip. Charlotte respected the law, and something like this would not only disappoint her, but she might tell others too. Him talking now was as good as him turning down his buddies. Was it worth it?

“I started getting bugged. My buddies are back, and they’ve planned a series of heists. They don’t have a good enough driver, so they’ve asked me. And…they say if I don’t do it, they’ll not only smear my name all over for the past, but they’ve threatened worse things…things that could get people hurt. ‘Course, they’re betting on the fact that I still crave driving…which…I do.”

Bret paces some more, not even sure why he was spilling all of this. He hadn’t planned it this way. It was just…he just couldn’t…lying to Charlotte was impossible. Period.

“So…I said yes to them. I said yes, and I know their plans. Well…not all of them. I don’t know where they’re hitting first. But…the first one is tomorrow.”

He walks over to the table and leans down to pick up a plate again. “I go, I get rich and drive one more time. I don’t go, and I risk getting hurt or worse, or someone I care about getting hurt.”

He stares at the plate numbers, the right and wrong playing tug-o-war in his soul. Then his eyes drift to Charlotte again. His gaze was dim. He knew he was wrong. He knew going against the law was wrong, and just as stupid as the first time. But there was more…

“Sometimes I wonder if I hadn’t ever gotten involved in the robberies in the first place, if I would have had a chance at keeping Maria. I don’t know…I don’t know if I would have or not. But…”

Bret’s shoulders drop and he tosses the plate onto the table. Sinking down again next to Charlotte on the couch, his slouched body language portrays surrender. “…but I can’t take that risk again…I just can’t do it.”

He lifts his eyes to meet Charlotte’s. “I don’t know why you mean so much to me, Charlotte. Ever since I met you, you just….do something to me that no one else does. You just…give me life… you’ve put meaning back into my life and…and I feel like I can’t even live without it anymore.”

He shakes his head slightly. “Why I even said yes to these guys this time around, I don’t know. But…looking at you now, and telling you all of this…I just can’t go through with it. So tomorrow…they’ll be looking for me. Because I’m not going to show up and be their driver. I can’t…because I don’t want to risk losing you. Unless I already have, just with this information...and if that's the case, tomorrow you'll be gone too.”

Leaning back, he closes his eyes, as if almost thinking if he couldn’t see the turmoil around him, maybe it didn’t really exist. “So there you go…that’s why I have plates in my house.”

Worry

*Charlotte sits quiet as Bret comes in the house a smile spreading across her face as she receves the kiss. Once Bret sits down and realizes she knows about the envilop she lets out a sigh and takes Bret's hand in her own.*

"Bret, you know I don't invade you privacy and I don't ask to many questions because your business is your business, but the continuance of that envelops has me a little worried Bret. Can you just enlighten me a little just this once so I am stop worrying."

*Charlotte looks at Bret searching his eyes and showing there worry while her tone stay calm and cool. She didn't want to come across upset or angry she just wanted a few answers.*

So anyway...

"Hey!" A smile spreads across Carson's face as he comes out of the kitchen to greet Jess. "That's great!"

Coming around the counter, he goes to the booth, leaning down to plant a kiss on Jess' lips. "You realize this means I'll just have to bring supper over some night so we don't have to eat Herb's food all the time like we have been..." He glances over his shoulder to look to the kitchen, not knowing if Herb had heard him or not.

Looking back to Jess, he gives her a wink. "I got food on the stove, but I get a break in a while. Got time for a bored Aussie?"


"...Anyway, so that's what happened there." Jason shrugs, leaning his elbows on the cafe table, stirring the frozen mocha treat with his straw. It was after lunch, but he'd taken up Misty's offer to go do something, and they'd ended up here for something sweet. He'd just gotten done telling her what had happened in Texas, and about Katie's reactions.

"So if I'm on edge, I apologize. This whole thing just doesn't set right with me I guess. I don't know where she is...I'm assuming she went up on the mountain for some alone time, but she's never shut me out before."

He shrugs again, and licks some whipped cream off his straw. "But enough about that. I see you and Kyle together a lot lately... you two serious, or just hanging out?" His eyes gain back a little twinkle. That wasn't a question he could get away with, with anyone else but her.


Bret skips up the porch steps, looking over his shoulder at Charlotte’s car in the driveway. She must have decided to do some cleaning. He hadn’t thought about her coming over today…not that he minded. Some men might not like it to have a woman coming to clean their house, but in a way, Bret enjoyed it. Truth be known, even when he did think about cleaning up a little, he usually didn’t… if there was a mess, Charlotte had a reason to come back.

Getting inside, he sees the back of Charlotte’s head on the couch and grins. Walking quietly, even though he knew she’d know he was there, he comes up behind her. Leaning down over the couch, he slings his arm around her and kisses her almost upside down, cocking his head to see her eyes. “Hi.”

Giving her shoulders a quick rub, he straightens up, then comes around to flop down next to her. “Decided to clean some more, eh?” He nods and looks around. “Maybe it needed it. So, what…”

Bret’s voice trails off as suddenly as his eyes land on the envelope that sat on the table. He pauses, and swallows hard. He turns his head back to look at Charlotte. “Finding interesting things?”

Start

*Walking over to the counter Misty empty some of the pills onto a tray and grabs another bottle. Count some out for Jason enough to last a few weeks she puts them in the bottle and goes to the computer to print a lable for it. Finally looking up at Jason she gives a small smile.*

"I'm doing ok. Not amazing yet but I am a lot better than I was and am continuing to work on it. I guess as life moves on you slowly get use to the changed. Kyle's been a big help to, its never a dule moment with him around."

*Looking down at the computer again for a moment Misty does some clicking.*

"Yeah, I guess even when you work in the same place as someone alse sometimes its just hard to get ahold of them to talk. I think I am going to try and start talking to my friends more and stop taking them for granted ya know. You never know when that might be the last time you see them."

*Misty gives a smile to Jason as she walks back over with the bottle.*

"I think I am going to start with you. Would you like to go out for some coffee or lunch?"

*The small bells ring as Jess enters Mom and Pop's. Jess excitment over flowing. To some this would not be a big deal but to her this was. TO find someone who accepted her and was going to trust her it made Jess feel real good. Sitting down at her normal booth Jess waves to Carson and dosnt even wait for him to come around to the frunt.*

"Guess what? I found a place. I am going to meet the lady tomarrow."

*Jess gives a big smile.*

*CHarlotte heads up Bret's sidewalk after having lunch with him. It was an early lunch and he had other planes with friends. Having the day off Charlotte had nothing alse planed so she headed back to Bret's house to clean. It was normal not for her to come over once a week and clean, but the last few weeks she had been so busy with work she dident and it had been naglected. Now it REALLY needed to be done.

Starting in the kitchen Charlotte goes through the house and cleans it top to bottem. She didnt mind she liked it.

Getting to the closet she finds a mess load of papers and rolls her eyes to herself. Bringing all the papers out she spreads them across the table and thumbs through them seeing if they were important enough to keep. Most of them were not. Coming across a manella envilops Charlotte just looks at it for a moment. It seemed a little heavy. Opening it to make sure it was something unimportant before she threw it away Charlotte comes across the plates and a letter. Glancing over it her face frowns. What was this? What was Bret doing?

Throwing the rest of the papers out Charlotte keeps the folder on the table and goes into the living room to sit down watching tv. She never pryed into Bret business but now, this she though at least she could ask about it when he got home.*

Alright

On break, Carson sinks down on his bed for a moment, taking a quick breather before the next customer rush started. He was working a lot lately... and though not on the clock part of the time, he'd rather be working here than out getting into trouble, so he didn't mind. At least spending time with Jess had not only given him something safe to do, but it had gotten him away from Mom and Pop's when he needed to as well.

Glancing to the little night stand, Carson spies the shoe box stuffed underneath. Going for it, he picks it up and lifts the lid to browse through the few treasures that he did have. A few pictures... melancholy sets in.

Reaching the bottom, he gives a sigh as he pulls out the gold chain and locket. He flips it open to look at the picture for a moment, then closes it again. Fingering it for a few moments, his mind wanders. He liked Jess...he had fun with her... she'd given him friendship, and while helping her, she'd helped him too. But his heart kept going back to what he'd lost. Would he be able to move on, or would he always do that? And if so, was he not being fair to Jess?

Putting the locket away, he stuffs the box away too, and slaps his cap back on his head. Work was a good distraction. He heads back to the kitchen, asking Herb what was next on the list.


Reese cringes as he hears the noise too, and looks at Angelica with sympathy. "Me? Why do you think I always yell for Scott? He's..." His voice trails off as he realizes he hadn't spoken in past tense. Sighing a little, he shakes his head. "I don't know a thing. I'd shut it off then start it again... maybe ask Jason. He's more savvy than I am."

Shaking his head again, he reaches for a folder. "We just can't keep going like this. We've got to get a tech guy in house here before we all go crazy." He thinks for a moment, knowing that the door down the hall hadn't been opened since he'd last been in there. For some reason, it just felt wrong to put someone else in there. But...life had to go on.

"Maybe the guys in Arizona have some extra hands."


Jason slides off the table and looks at the bottle in Misty's hand, a little skeptically at first, but then shrugs. "Hey, if it works..."

Rick nods with agreement. "That's a good idea, Misty. I don't know why I didn't think about that. Come to think of it, Jase...it might not be a bad idea for you to carry some of those with you all the time... If you ever have an attack and your sugar plummets and there's no food around, you could get into some big trouble."

Jason doesn't like it, but nods. "Alright. I think I can do that." He gives Misty a look to go ahead. "Set me up, Doc."

As Rick walks away to go back to his work, Jason cocks his head at Misty. He hadn't had much of a chance to talk to her lately, but she'd been looking better and better. "So how are you doing, Misty? Seems like I see you every day but never talk to you."


Bret hangs up his phone and glances to the hall closet. Things had been on hold for a couple weeks now and everyone was getting anxious... especially him. But it wasn't excitement that drove him... it was guilt. He shouldn't be doing this... not risking a second round like he went through before. But... followed by threats, what could he do? And it was a way to get some quick cash. But... what was he really willing to risk?

He looks at the clock. He was supposed to meet Charlotte for lunch. He could tell that she'd sensed something wasn't right lately, but she'd respected his privacy. That was more than Maria had ever done...and yet...maybe it would be better if he were forced to reveal what was really going on. Did he really want to risk ruining another relationship? There had been an awful lot more involved with Maria's leaving, but this same thing is what had been the straw to break the camel's back. His feelings for Charlotte had grown more than he might admit... did he really want to risk losing her?

Half House

*The rain starts pouring faster as Katie takes shelter in her tent. It figured, her aunt had said about how nice the whole summer had been very little rain and now, now of all times it had to start. If she had any sence Katie would make her way down the moutain now. The way the rain was coming it was going to get pretty mucky and slippery. Kate new better than to be up her when it was raining. But she wasnt ready to go home yet. Her head was still a mess and not to mention she was all cut up and her aunt would freak more than she probely was now. No...Katie wanted to continue being alone. Loners don't get hurt. Yes being alone for now was safe. If the rain let up in a little bit Katie would be on her way up higher.*

*Jess pases her livingroom floor the phone glued to her ear.*

"Thank you Ms. Fergason. Yes I understand. Yes I should have the money in a week or two if you can hold it for me."

*Even though no one could see her Jess nodded her head to the last on the phone anyways. The excitment was building inside of her. After going to see an apartment this morning the landlord had called her back right away and wanted to work something out. The last new about Jess past but from how she talked on the phone so far she was willing to give Jess a chanse.*

"Ok...yes. Tomarrow for lunch, ok I can do that. Ok...ok thank you Ms. Fergason."

*Jess hangs up the phone and in a moment happyness searges through her. The halfahouse that she had looked at in the paper would be hers tomarrow when she signed for it. Giving an excited squeel Jess leaves her apartment locking the doorbehind her and going to her car. Making her way to Mom and Pop's she couldnt wait to tell Carson the good news.*

*Angelica gives a knock on Reese door as a horrable noise comes from her office. It almost sounded like something was grinding and it felt like nails on a chalkbored.

Poking her head in her tils her head to the side the the horrable noise continues and it proves to be hurting her ears.*

"Reese, you wouldnt happen to know anything about computers would you? I am usally good with them but...I just cant figure out for the life of me why it is making that noise and its driving me batty not to mention everyone alse."

*As the conversation with Jason and his sugar continues Misty cant help but let her heart go out to him. Not only was his sugar going crazy but he lost his connection and his best friend. Misty could only imagen how hard that was.

Sitting back in her chair she continplates options for Jason is the continues before standing and going over to the cabnit. Pulling out a bottle of red pills she walks over to Jason.*

"I over hurd your sugar is crazy at the moment, and the only way to correct it is to keep eating. Well what happend when you full right?"

*Misty hold up the bottle.*

"These are sugar pills. Some people with low bloodsugar that is REALLY REALLY bad take these because its the only wait to maintain it for them. They could work fo you to. They are completely harmless because all they are is sugar. So if your intrested I could get you some to help out."

Sugar

Carson grins as Jess returns, not resisting to put his arm around her again. "I think I can do that."

He thinks for a moment, then gives just a little nod. "Yeah...Jen's a neat woman." For a moment, his eyes drift back to Axel, then back to Jess again. "That guy seems nice. Doesn't stick inside his group like the others do, does he..."

Giving a sigh, he settles back for a little while longer, until people start heading off in their own directions for the night.


"Grease!" Logan calls to his friend. "Hey!"

Axel is still watching Jess return to Carson, but finally turns around, taking his time getting back to his friends. "What?"

"Don't act so thrilled," Logan razzes. "Jam session at Mike's on Thursday."

"Alright."

"Oh, and I talked to a guy here who might want Cryptic for a little gig in a few weeks."

"I thought we weren't planning anything for a while."

Logan shrugs. "Didn't think I should pass it up."

Axel gives him a weary grin. "Whatever."

Max comes up behind him, resting an arm casually on his shoulder. "Stealing girls again, or what, man?"

Axel turns to look at him, and shrugs off his arm. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Mm-hmm..." Max quirks an eyebrow. "She's pretty...but looks like she's taken already."

"And you think...?" Axel looks at him with a look of apathy.

"You did snatch her up pretty quick when her boyfriend walked away."

Axel purses his lips, then sets a hand on Max's shoulder, looking him in the eye. "I'd try to explain, but I don't think your brain could comprehend it. So...you just keep thinking you got it figured out if it'll make you happy." He gives him a pat. "Just don't go spreading that wild imagination around. Might get you into trouble sometimes."

Max rolls his eyes as Axel walks away, then shakes his head before joining in another conversation.


Finally Carson gives Jess a little nudge. "If I stay here much longer, I think I'm gonna fall asleep. "Walk you home?"

Jen hears them preparing to leave, and makes a point of seeing them again. "Thanks for coming, guys. It was a lot of fun having you here."

Carson is standing, and looks down at her, cocking his head. "Well...thanks for the invite."

Jen grins. "Would you come again?"

Carson has to think a moment. He expected himself to really say no, but...for some reason, he didn't want to. "I might."

"Good." Jen gives a little wave. "Safe walk home. I'll see you guys around Mom and Pop's probably."

"Yeah, sure." Carson watches Jen join back up with Mike. He'd been expecting an invite or prompt to church...most people in the past had pressured him that way. But Jen hadn't. Interesting. "Alright...let's go."


Jason's eyes fly open for the third time. He rolls over with a groan, knowing what it was this time. "Katie, cut it out," he growls to the dark. Was she doing this on purpose or what? He didn't know. He couldn't tell. But every time the valve to the emotional pull was open again, it woke him up, just to be shut off again. It was like standing at a sink and fooling with the knobs. On, off, on off. He had no idea what Katie was feeling - he never did. He didn't have the ability to know what was setting her off, or ever what it was she was feeling. Her emotions were unreadable to him. But it could only be one of two things... Either she was consciously opening up and closing down again, or something was bothering her enough that she couldn't hold it anymore, then she regained control.

It was starting to bother Jason to think that it was something that was bothering her. Apparently she didn't want him involved, so there wasn't much he could do. But not knowing was killing him. Usually she only lost control when she was upset enough about something, or was startled or scared, to break her concentration. But he was clueless as to what it was this time.

Jason wasn't sure if he was more irritated with being woken up, not knowing what was going on, or just the fact that he was closed off. Feeling a little dizzy, he gets up to drink some juice, then heads back to bed. It was going to be a long night.


"Earth to Jason." Reese waves a hand in front of Jason's face.

"Hmm?"

Reese looks across Jason's desk at his weary eyes. "You okay?"

"Mm-hmm."

"You don't look so hot."

"I don't feel so hot."

Reese's concern grows. He'd been trying to tell Jason to go see Nate about a case they were on, but Jason didn't look well at all. "How about going to see Rick?"

For once, Jason didn't argue. He'd been having dizzy spells all morning, his knees felt weak, and he couldn't think straight. Getting up from his desk, he trudges to his door, but stops. "What was it you wanted?"

"Nevermind. Just go."

Jason lamely obeys, going to the infirmary. He sees Misty and gives a little wave, then looks to Rick. "Hey, doc."

Rick raises his eyebrows. "You look...terrible."

"Oh, thanks." Jason sits on the table.

"Rough night?"

"Awful." Jason sits still as Rick shines a light in his eyes. "I can't think...I keep getting dizzy..."

"Had anything to eat?"

"Yeah...breakfast...glass of OJ about two hours ago."

Rick purses his lips in thought. "Let me check your blood sugar." It only takes a few moments, and Rick shakes his head. "Jase, you're pretty low. No wonder you feel like crap."

"But I had plenty of sugar this morning."

Rick sighs, folding his arms on his chest. "How are you emotions?"

"Just as awful. Katie shut me out as much as she can and it's driving me bonkers."

Rick shrugs. "Well there's your answer."

"What do you mean?"

"She shut you out. What does that do to you?"

Jason shakes his head. "I don't know. It...like...keeps my emotions from getting out I guess. Like a kink in a hose."

"And what did we discover your heightened emotions do?"

"Changes stuff....chemical makeup..."

"Right." Rick nods. "Your emotions aren't going anywhere, so they're affecting your blood sugar like they do when you get upset and they go haywire."

"Oh great."

"Grab some fruit from the breakroom and just keep snacking. It should balance it out."

The Night

*Jess can't help but shake her head as Axel talks. The ton in his voice adding to his words and his smile making anyone believe about how true they could be.

And Jess dances with Axel she gets lost in the music as he guild her around the fire. Her feet moving without her even knowing it.*

"Your some guy you know that? Your actully getting me to dance alright."

*As the music stops and Axel brings Jess hand to her lips her eye dont break from him. There was that look again. That glind that was almost hypantising.

Giving a small bow to Axel Jess smiles as she whispers.*

"It was my pleasure."

*Breaking away from Axel Jess returns to Carson side and sits down. Giving him a smile she nods.*

"Did you have a nice talk with Jen?"

*Leaning into Carson a little bit Jess takes his arm and put it around her giving a smile.*

"You have to keep me warm, I'm getting chilli."

*Jess liked spending time with Carson she always did. Even back in the day She liked to talk to him and be around him. Now it was differnt and Carson was differnt but Jess liked it. Her and Carson got along, they new hope to joke and they just seemed there for eachother. It helped Jess with a new confadince to know that she was wanted by a decint guy.*

*Putting her hands behind her head Katie looks up at the stars twinkling in the night as the crackling of the fire roars next to her. The night was a bit chilli but the fire offered Katie all the warmth she needed the light playing shadows, as they danced on the trees and rocks. Normanl Katie would be enjoying this but not tonight her mind was a million miles away still bouncing one thing to the next. For a moment Katie's mind wanders to Jason wondering what he was doing. She couldnt help but worry he was ok and for a moment Katie wants to open up the connection again but almost as fast as the thought came, it was gone again. No she couldnt, not now not yet. Finally as the night went on and the fire started to die Katie cralwed into her tent and snuggled under the covers trying to get some rest. But good dreams did not come as Katie tossed and turns the nightmairs invading her mind. Once and a while waking her with such a start she lost controll of her block and let some strong feeling slip out only to relize and close it back up trying to fall asleep again.*

Dancing

Stopping with Misty, his hands in hers, Kyle stares back into her eyes. Her asking gave him joy...her glow gave him hope. Friendship was grand. His relationship with Misty was bliss. Knowing that she was perhaps seeking God...that was better than all combined.

Kyle lifts a hand to brush her cheek. "Of course," he promises.

Withdrawing, he pulls Misty to the side, bringing her a little closer to sway to the music. And for once...he lets the humor stay in his eyes without breaking the moment through silly speech.


Axel's mouth curls into the thin smile only he could pull off. His fingers wrap around Jess' hand with a gentle firmness and warmth of someone who could see the nervousness, and desired to melt it away. "My feet are protected by thick boots," he quips. "And you're not heavy enough to do any real damage."

Drawing her around the fire, he nears other couples who are dancing, in an effort to help Jess know he wasn't trying to get her alone. Taking both her hands, he avoids closeness and respects her space, not touching her waist. "Just follow my lead," he directs with a wink. "And don't look down."

Finding the beat of the fairly fast song, Axel minimizes his moves, but at the same time, guides Jess by her hands, skillfully manipulating her own moves by using her balance and countering so she'll follow his steps. Once he's confident that Jess has the pattern, he recalls her statement about the flame.

"Light of a flame is always stronger than darkness," he comments softly as they dance. "Even stars that are millions of miles away eventually pierce the darkness surrounding us so we can see them."

He pauses, staring into Jess' eyes, even while he moves. "Cup your hands around darkness and then let go. The shadows disperse. Cup your hands around the light and then let go. It falls upon even the darkest of corners. The light is there...all you have to do is let go."

As the song comes to and end, Axel slows to a stop. His palms on Jess' had a roughness to them, yet were soft and gentle. Studying her for a couple moments, he finally brings one of her hands to his lips, giving it a light kiss. Then backing up a step and letting her go, he bows with a flourish. "Thank you, melady."


Coming back into the circle of people Carson slips the partial Bible into his pocket. Seeing Jess gone from her seat, he scans the crowd, before finding her with Axel. Carson had kept a watchful eye on Axel...he seemed like an okay guy....nice enough.

Sliding into his ownn seat, Carson waits, keeping his eyes on Jess as she dances. It was nice to see her outside the normal routine. She was slowly gaining back her confidence...the one tool that she'd wielded so well before.

Carson's eyes do wander though, to the other side of the fire, finding Misty, dancing slowly, closely with Kyle. He looks away quickly, finding Jess again. It wasn't worth thinking about...not anymore...Misty was taken.


Jason tosses and turns in bed, unable to find rest. He was so tired, but his mind wouldn't settle down. His head hurt...his emotions were on the verge of going crazy... He just felt...wrong. Every so often, he'd check once more, trying to send a message, just to have the emotions bounce back at him. It was getting more frustrating...but the more Jason tried, the more he realized how much he was missing that connection.

Colors

*As Jess listens to Tom a few feelings stir inside of her. She wasn't sure how to take all this. Sure he hurd of God before and when she was at the Orphanige they went to church but never had she seen someone talk so strongly about him before. Some things she didn't understand. If God loved everyone than why would he let this stuff happend? To her, or anyone. The hand she was delt was the one God wanted her to have? Stairing into the flames of the fire Jess just thinks, wondering...continplating.

As Carson excuses himself Jess nods as she wraps her arms around herself.*

"Ok, I promise I won't run away."

*Jess gives a small fire as she gets lost in thought again the words that were spoken still echoing in her ears and she trys to work them all out.

As Axel stops infront of Jess she dosn't even notice untill he finally speaks. Looking up at him she locks with her eyes as the fire light dances in them. Her train of through broken for now. Continuing to look into Axel's eyes and study his words Jess trys to see if his motives were pure. Looking down at his hands than back to his eyes. *

"You think a flame can burn through a darkness thats so thick?"

*Stairing into the eyes that held ther own mistery it felt like a strong pull. One that someone could not controll. Not one of love, but one that challanged your inner soul to stand up and find who you were. Jess shakes her head and gives a chuckle.*

"I'm not a good dancer at all let alone even been dancing. Are you do you want you feet to deal with that pain?"

*Giving a shake of her head Jess sets her cup down and takes Axel's hand finally giving just a tiny shake of nervousness. This was crazy she couldn't dance.*

*Misty turns her head and smiles back at Kyle. Leaning her forhead aganst his she looks deep into his eyes for a moment. The life, the unexsplanable joy always that flowed through Kyle was...was that the love and the feeling God gave everyone. Searching as if looking for something Misty continues to stair as a smile forms on her face.

Since the first time Kyle had asked her to go to church Misty had gone again, and than not went and than went again. But even she couldnt deny that the weeks she did go it felt like she was renewed, and the week started good. Maybe, maybe slowly she would go more, and maybe this feeling would increase. Could God really love her too, after everything.

Finally giving Kyle a small kiss Misty whispers.*

"You sure can, as long as its slow this time."

*Misty smiles and stands it almost felt like she had tears in her eyes. This feeling she felt it was indescribable, but it felt like a whole new chapter was starting. It felt like the ugly grey colors were being lifted and she could see the bold world again. Misty liked this feeling, and if God was the way to keep it than it couldnt be all that bad.

Stoping for a moment as Kyle and herself walks Misty turns to him and gives a smile again. Though her spark wasnt there, a soft glow of something alse was, not many could detect it, but it was there non the less.*

"Kyle, if its alright can I go to church with you more and when I tell you not this week, can you pick me up anyways and remind me what I would be missing?"

Flame

Carson is just a little off guard, meeting Misty at the table with the drinks, and he finds his eyes staring at her for a moment before awkwardly dropping his gaze. "Um...yeah...I mean..I guess we are." This wasn't really his thing...not when he wasn't comfortable associating with the others who were here. Would he ever gain the feeling back that he had friends here?

He forces a slight chuckle. "You know me...find the nearest corner and be the fly on the wall. No walls around here though I guess."

Picking up a new cup of hot chocolate, he turns, but pauses, looking at Misty again. He was having a good time being more than friends with Jess...they got along well and seemed to click pretty well. But when he looked at Misty, there was just...something.... "You look good."

Carson clears his throat and lowers his eyes again. "See you around. Tell, um... tell Nate hi next time you see him." Being fairly quick, he heads back to Jess to resume his seat. After handing her, the hot chocolate, he drapes an arm around her shoulders. "Wouldn't want you to get cold," he teases.

The fun continues around the fire, some people breaking out in song, all the while the gigles land laughing persisting. A while later, one of the men stands up and walks closer to the fire in view of all, and simply puts a finger to his lips. "Shhhhh....."

Amazingly, the still sound brings the noise down around him, until everyone is quit. A hush falls over the site, all eyes on him. He turns, scanning everyone in the circle for a moment. Though having a straight face, his eyes seem to smile. He points to the fire.

"You know...this fire is a good example of what love is, and what love can do. And I'm not talking any ordinary love... I'm talking about a love so great, that it can touch every single life on this planet."

Carson lifts a skeptical eyebrow. That was Tom...Jen had pointed him out earlier. He was a leader in her church. If he was getting at what Carson thought he was getting at, it wasn't worth listening to.

Tom continues. "This fire will engulf anything you put in it. Wood, plastic, even metal if you get it hot enough. If we didn't have a barrier around it, it would spread and engulf this park." He picks up a stick and catches the end on fire. He makes a point of holding it up. "This is about the size of a human's love, or what we perceive as love. We limit it with pride...judgment...maybe greed. So while perfectly capable of loving unconditionally, we put barriers around our hearts. So the human love....it's bright and glowing, and has the potential to grow. But it's about this size."

He tosses the stick into the bonfire. "That...that's God's love. He has no barriers...He has no pride in the way... no conditions... no judgment. His love is pure, enormous enough for everyone, and once you've been touched by it, you'll always remember it."

Tom paces just a little. "And you know...this fire... it will engulf any kind of wood you throw in there. New, old, pine, maple, smooth or knotty. It'll take it all. God's love takes everyone too. God's love is extended to you..." He catches the eyes of several people. "And it's extended to the beggar down the street. It's extended to the guy with the big house and fancy car... and it's extended to the murder behind bars. We put limits on our love...but not God. It doesn't matter who you are or where you've been...you are not out of reach of God's love. His love is not measurable. And our human minds can't even fathom its depths."

Carson can feel his eyes wandering to the ground. He'd heard about God before...he'd been to church a few times as a kid...but for some reason...some unexplainable reason, Tom's words sent a strange surge into his heart. If only he knew the prayers beside him that were being lifted up, maybe he wouldn't be so surprised.

Tom spreads out his arms. "We can try to understand it...we can try to analyze it... some of us may not even want it! But it's there...God's love is always there. Always. It's never a bad time to accept it, and it's never to late, no matter where you've been. How much does God love you? He sent is only Son to die for you...that says something right there. Jesus didn't die just for people like me... He didn't die for preachers, and do-gooders. He died for every single one of us. The rich, the poor, the lost, the seeking... the sports players, the cheerleaders, the teachers, business men and women, cooks, stay-at-home moms... He died for the faithful, for the unfaithful... for the loving, and for those who have never shown love. The happy, the angry... the sad...the children. Jesus died...for you."

Tom pauses, the passion in his words demanding attention. "I don't care who you are or what you've done... if you don't know the love of Christ..the love of God... then you're truly missing out on the most wonderful thing in life. And though it's never too late as long as you're alive... someday... someday the end will be here, and you'll have never allowed yourself to experience that love. See...it's offered...it's there... but you have to accept it. I can stand outside this fire all day long and look at its beauty. But unless I step into it, I'll never experience it."

He looks around at the faces. Some he knew, some he didn't. He didn't know the hearts of those here, or who was or wasn't walking with God. But he could not hold this message back. "What's been holding you back? What are you afraid of? Giving up freedom? What freedom? Are you not a slave to this world? What are you afraid of? Rejection? God rejects no one. Perod. What is keeping you from stepping closer to the flame and reaching out to the One who holds all the answers? What other people think? Pride? Contentment?"

Tom almost laughs. "I don't care who you are... if you don't have Christ in your life, there is a part of you that feels incomplete. There is a part of you that is searching for answers... longing for purpose... longing for focus. Maybe you've been looking in all the wrong places. Bad habits...failed relationships... but you've never known anything else. You've never been shown the way to the answers you need. Well I'm telling you tonight... it's God's love."

He stops again, waiting. "That's all I'll say for now... but if you have questions... if you're searching, please... please come talk to me. I would so dearly love to tell you more."

A smile is on Kyle's face as Tom goes to sit back down, and he finishes off his hot chocolate. The music starts again, and he glances at Misty. He didn't know what she thought of all this... he hadn't gotten as far to talk too much abut it with her, not wanting to pry or push. But he did wonder how this made her feel.

His smile softens. "May I have this dance?"

Carson leans back on the bench, having resented his strange feelings enough to push them out of the way with annoyance. He tosses his empty cup into the trash can behind them, and gives a little sigh. "Prove it there's a God and maybe I'll listen," he mutters. He hadn't really intended on anyone hearing him, but Jen's head snaps around.

Her eyes lock with his, her own so full of a strange mixture of anger and sorrow. Thinking for a moment, she leans the other way to tell Mike something, then starts to wheel forward. "Carson...come with me."

"What?"

"Please...come with me."

Carson quirks an eyebrow, wondering what she was getting at. He shrugs lamely and stands, looking down at Jess. "Be right back I guess."

Jen starts forward, going to the outside edge of the festivities where one could see everyone there. It's dark out here, and chillier. She shivers a little, but doesn't complain. Stopping, she turns to see the group around the fire. Making sure Carson is with her, she points. "See that young woman out there on the edge...the one with the toddler?"

Carson squints, then nods. "Yeah...so?"

"That's Carrie. And that toddler is Mindy. Mindy was born with a condition that doctors said would kill her. They gave her a zero percent chance of survival."

Carson is a little impressed. "What happened?"

"The church prayed for her." Jen doesn't look up, but picks out another person. "See that man there? With the limp?"

"Yeah."

"That's Jake. He limps because he was in a car accident three years ago. His car was completely crushed. There was no way he should have survived. He came away with only a broken leg."

"Wow."

"See that man down there, talking to Mike?"

Carson shrugs. "It's Phil."

"That's right. He almost succeeded at killing himself once. But someone found him just in time."

"I didn't know..."

"That someone got a call that showed Phil's number, and there was no one there. On a whim, they went to check on him." Tears glisten in Jen's eyes. "Phil hadn't called him." She turns her back on the group and points up to the sky where just a few stars were visible. "Count the stars. How many are there?"

Carson stuffs his hands in his pockets and looks up. "There are too many to count."

"Explain life. Explain a baby's birth. Explain a soul that drives someone forward." Jen looks back to Carson, her eyes of courage piercing his own. "Now. Tell me God doesn't exist."

Carson opens his mouth to retort, but what could he say? There were unexplainable things. She'd just proven that. He could feel his defenses rising. "If there was a God, he should have taken me out of the world a long time ago to save the lives of others." He grits his teeth as unexpected emotions hit him hard. "He should have stopped me from killing... torturing... ruining lives. Do you know how many people have suffered at my hands, Jen?" He holds out his hands. "Do you realize how much blood is on these hands? I have done things to people who wished I would have just killed them off. Men...women... it didn't matter."
Hated tears burn the back of his eyes. "Where was their God? Where was God's love when I was doing that to them?"

A tear runs down Jen's face and she reaches up to lay a hand on Carson's arm. Her voice is soft. "God's love was around you, Carson. He didn't let you die because He loved you too much. You have so much potential...you have so much purpose. I don't know why He let other people suffer... but I do know that He kept you alive for a reason. You did do some awful, awful things. But Carson Banks..." Her eyes meet his. "You are not out of God's reach."

In a rare moment, Carson can't hold his stare, and backs down from Jen's eyes. He blinks back his emotions.... emotions that he didn't understand. He'd never felt like this before. It was stupid, but he couldn't deny that something was affecting him. "I can't find the answers," he responds lamely. "I just keep...going around in circles. I don't understand it. I don't know how it works. I don't know where I fit."

Jen reaches into a pocket on her wheelchair and pulls out a leather New Testament, holding it up to him. "Try reading this."

Carson takes, it, but then hesitates. "But this is yours."

Jen shrugs. "I can get another one."

"But I can't..."

"Then it's a loan. Take it, Carson. Read it. If you get through with it, and you still refuse to believe you are loved...if you still insist on looking elsewhere for your answrs... then I'll never bring it up to you again."

"Never, huh?"

"You have my word."

Her confidence was startling, and Carson's fingers tighten around the small book. "You seem to know something I don't."

Jen can't help her smile. "It's all in there."

Axel twirls Taylor around again, after she'd begged him for another round. Losing her to another guy though, he's left without a partner. A young woman is quick on the uptake, tapping his shoulder, and holding out her hands. He gives in, dancing with her for a few minutes too, making their way around the fire. As another man steals her away too, Axel looks down and realizes that he's stopped near Jess. She was alone.

Caution going by way of the smoke, he stretches out his hand, still breathing a little heavily from the activity. He locks eyes with her. "Sometimes it takes dancing near the flame to ignite your own light."

More the Merrier

*Jess smiles up at Carson as he stands.*

"Mmmm...I'd like that. Thank you."

*As Carson walks away Jess eyes follow him. She felt a little strange being here around more people than just Carson, but she felt comfortablt knowing Carson with with her. Everyone seemed nice here though she did notice some people from the first time they met it made Jess cheek turn red a little. That had not been a good first incounter.*

*Misty's laugh rings through the camp as Kyle pulls her up to dance. Though she had never been good at it, it was one thing she loved to do and having Kyle as a partner it helped not bring notice to her mistakes.*

"Kyle....I can't breath...."

*As Misty continues to dance with Kyle being turned around and laughing at the same time she gasps for air but loves every moment of it.

Finally coming to a halt as Kyle's eyes are on Tylor and Axel Misty's own drifts to Carson and than to Jess next to him. He looked happy, and Jess looked a lot better than when she saw her before. It made Misty smile knowing Carson was ok and someone was looking after him.

Giving Kyle's arm a pat she smiles.*

"I'm going to go get something to drink. Do you want anything?"

*Heading over to the table Misty is quiet for a moment. Wanting to say something to Carson but not sure what. Finally she gets up the gumption.*

"It's nice to see you came tonight, and brought Jess with you. The more the merrier with these guys. Are you enjoying yourself?"

*Misty goes to pour herself another glass.*

Dance

Clint nods absentmindedly at Wendy, stopping his train of thought just for a moment at her comment about love being dropped in someone's lap.

Glancing to her as she finishes, he sighs. "Yeah... I think Jason doesn't realize a lot of things about him and Katie. I remember when I told him it was possible to just be friends with her. At the time, I was right... problem is, things change."


Jason sits behind his desk, trying to concentrate on work, but it's just not going that way. He'd planned on going home tonight and not coming in to TJY, but he just hadn't felt like it. Dealing with Reese hadn't been too fun, informing him that Katie hadn't come back yet, nor did he know when she would. Why Jason got the brunt of it, he didn't know...he hadn't told her to stay, and he didn't even know why she did or what she was doing! But telling that to Reese hadn't done a whole lot of good.

Leaning back in his chair, he taps his pencil on his desk. He'd been invited to go to a bonfire tonight, but had declined. He felt...too..... something. It was weird. Not having the continual pull on his emotions, they were starting to build up a little bit, and it didn't feel good. He'd never been able to feel Katie like she could feel him... but he could tell when something was different, and this wasn't fun. Why was she doing this? If she'd wanted alone time, he wouldn't have pried into her privacy or interrupted her with his own thoughts. Why couldn't she have just told him what was going on? He wasn't really upset with her...it just..... He didn't know what it felt like. But having his friend push him away like that just didn't set right with...

He gives a little start. Like a hose being released, then immediately kinked again, his emotional flow experiences a slight jolt. That was odd. He concentrates...groping for something... but there was nothing. He tries a message, but it comes slinging back with force, making him cringe. Nothing had changed...but why had there been a shift?

Sighing, Jason stands up. He was going home. He had to try and sleep or something before he went crazy.


Laughter and chatter rings out around the bonfire at the park. It was a dark and cold night, but the hot chocolate was keeping bodies warm, while the gaiety kept spirits warm. S'mores were a must and were created and eaten by anyone from ten years old to seventy. It wasn't that large of a group, but big enough to see the diversity and enjoy the company of those around.

Carson sits on a bench a short ways from the fire, Jess on one side, Jen then Mike on the other. He holds a styrofoam cup in his hand of the warm drink, and glances over to Jen, who was in her wheelchair. "So...when were you going to tell me this was a church event?"

Jen looks at him and shrugs. "Just because it's hosted by the church doesn't mean anything, does it? Bother you?"

"No..." Carson looks back at the fire, though his tone indicates that he suspected different motives of Jen.

She gives him a little smile. "Does it scare you that much?"

"Ha!" Carson shakes his head. "Religion never scared me. Just ticks me off."

"Who said anything about religion?"

Carson quirks an eyebrow, not knowing how to answer that one. Someone's shout and laughter breaks up their conversation. He shifts his concentration, moving his leg to bump Jess' knee teasingly. He and she hadn't gone out for group activities before, and it was just a little different...but he did enjoy having her there. He wouldn't have come at all, had he not promised Jen weeks ago that he would, but it wasn't so bad, even if she and Mike were the only ones he'd been conversing with, other than Jess. One factor that kept distracting him though, was the couple on the other side of the fire...


Kyle's joking brings another round of laughter from the group on their side of the circle around the fire. Phil was with them, and so was all of Cryptic.

Max laughs too much at something Kyle said and winds up spitting half his hot chocolate out, making the whole thing even funnier. "Aww!"

"You alright over there man?" Logan hollers.

"No! I got chocolate up my nose!"

Taylor almost dies laughing. "You look hilarious!"

Max smirks at her. "Thanks a lot."

Someone back by the tables turns on some music, livening things up even more. Kyle's eyes widen. He sets his cup down and jumps up, grabbing Misty's hands to pull her up too. Taking one hand in his, and putting his other around his waist, he swings her around, dancing to the music. His eyes sparkle in the light of the fire, his grin from ear to ear as his anitcs continue.

His action is the first in the chain of events, and soon, others are up dancing too.


Jen looks over to Carson once more, following his gaze. She wasn't sure what he was thinking...it was different to see him with a woman...he seemed like he was happier than he was...but there was still a spark missing. "Penny for your thoughts."

Before Carson even thinks, the words are out. "He makes her laugh, doesn't he?"

Jen knew that Kyle could make anyone laugh. But that wasn't the point. The point was, that Kyle was giving Misty something Carson never had - uninhibited attention. "Yes...he does."

"Well..." Carson stands up, sipping the last of the cocoa from his cup. "Time for another round." He glances down to Jess. "Want any more?"


Axel's eyes roam the firesite, continually coming back to the four across the way. Mike and Jen hadn't separated themselves from Phil, Kyle, and Cryptic to be anti-social, and it appeared they'd just ended up on the other side. Axel could tell though, that the two were making an effort to make Carson and Jess comfortable in this setting. Carson and Jess... Axel could see something was different than the first time he'd seen those two. He'd observed them a little bit over the last couple weeks, just briefly a time or two at Mom and Pop's. Two who had obviously not had a relationship before, were apparently now together. It was interesting. Even more interesting though, was the way Carson kept looking over here at Kyle and Misty. Axel didn't know the whole story, but his imagination told him a lot.

"Hey, you gonna dance with me or what?" Taylor holds out her hands.

Axel looks up at her, and gives her a small grin. "What... in public? You kidding?"

"Come on," Taylor begs. "Nobody else will. Not even Rocky."

"So I'm last pick again."

"Well I knew you wouldn't want to."

"You're smart."

"Oh, please, Axel? For me?" Taylor sticks out her lower lip. "One song?"

Axel gives a little sigh. "Dance, huh?" He slowly stands up, taking Taylor's hands. "Alright..." A sudden flash crosses his eyes as his ears pick up the upbeat song.

Taylor's own eyes widen as she realizes her mistake. "Ohhh, no, not...." She starts to be swung around. "You turkey, I didn't want a workout!"

"Too late." Axel twirls her far enoug away from the fire that they have room, and doesn't hold back. Expertly leading, he takes her into dance moves that no novice could pull off, his feet, kicking up the dust on the ground. Spinning and stepping in patterns, Axel guides Taylor around, skillfully making her look as though she knew as much as he, even though she didn't.

It's inevitable that not a full minute later, others have stopped dancing just to watch them, clapping, and laughing.